A judge has sentenced a Columbus attorney to 13 years in prison in a sex crimes case that involved allegations from his clients.

The sentencing of Javier Armengau came Tuesday, following his conviction last month on nine of 18 charges - including one count of rape, four counts of sexual battery and two counts of gross sexual imposition.

Prosecutors said the 52-year-old Armengau engaged in sexual conduct with five victims from 1998. His accusers included clients and mothers of clients. They say he preyed on women who needed his legal services.

Armengau continues to deny the charges. The Columbus Dispatch reports that he spoke defiantly for nearly an hour before his sentencing, saying the jury "lost its way" and got the verdict wrong.